Quote:
Originally Posted by WilsonTC
While perusing the local WalMart ammo case on my weekly run, in addition to seeing the typical empty holes where my favorite ammo used to reside (.45, .223, .40, .38, .308), I noticed bucket-loads of other ammo, some with dust/cobwebs on it (.17HMR, .22-250, 7mm, .30-30, etc.). This got me thinking...are there any other "common" guns (pistols/rifles) worthy of having that use these alternative calibers?
Why stress over finding .223 if I can find an AR-15 that shoots something else?
I know Savage used to make a nice .17HMR bolt-action. Any disadvantages to using this ammo?
What about handgun calibers? The only handgun ammo I saw in abundance (besides .22) was .44mag.
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Which 7mm? 7x57, 7mm Remington Magnum, what? Just about everyone chambers a bolt gun in 7mm Remington Magnum, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's worth having. Almost no one still chambers the old 7x57, but it is definitely worth looking for one. Ruger used to chamber their # 1 single shot in this caliber, and their M77 bolt gun as well. It's a great old caliber.
For the .30-30, you can't go wrong with a Marlin lever gun. I have found them to be generally more accurate than the '94 Winchester (out of production anyway, but there are tens of millions laying around...). There have been some single shots and bolt actions over the years, but now we are getting a bit obscure. Besides, every growing boy needs a lever gun...
I've shied away from the .17 HMR. I still remember the 5mm Remington - try finding ammo for that one today. I suppose the little .17 has caught on a bit better, but I really don't know many that shoot it. I would be worried that my shiny new rifle would be worthless in the not-too-distant future. I think the old .22 mag is a better round anyway. Lots of guns in that caliber, and I seem to see it on shelves all the time.
Nothing wrong with a .44 mag revolver. Pick one up and feed it the magnums for now, and keep you eyes peeled for the Specials. This is a wondefully versatile calliber; everyone should have at least one revolver so chambered.